Dr. E. Dewey Smith, Jr. Speaks From the Heart!

Labor Day is significant, as it honors the social and economic contributions that workers have made to the United States and the world at large. This day is special because of the strength, stability and survival that our great nation is based upon “the sustainability of our labor force.” We should all pause to honor our hard workers, regardless of their level, degree, or type of labor.Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said that “all labor has worth or value” and that “all laborers should be treated with decency”. Dr. King’s last earthly mission was focused on ensuring that sanitation “laborers” in Memphis would be treated honorably and respectfully.

As we pause to honor those who comprise the labor force of our country, we should also pay tribute to the “laborers” to whom the works of our ministries are entrusted. Jesus explained to His disciples that the harvests of ministerial opportunities were fully ripe and ready for the picking; yet committed “laborers” were few. It’s amazing that the Messiah’s 2000 year old assessment is eerily relevant today!

In most contemporary ministries, only 20% of the people manage 100% of local church ministry. While these figures are far beneath what we should expect, we still must strive to take this time to have “Ministry Labor Day”. Rather than complain about those who aren’t committed to the “work of ministry”, let’s celebrate those who have proven to be dependable in their labor for Christ! We should desire to honor the unsung “heroes & sheroes” of ministry, who work diligently and faithfully. Let’s plan volunteer appreciation moments to encourage and recognize those who make our ministry endeavors possible!